Composer

:

Johann Sebastian Bach

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Chorale

Compose Date

:

before 1751

Publication Date

:

1784 - 1787

Average_duration

:

1:13

'Was betrübst du dich, mein Herz, BWV 423' is a sacred aria composed by Johann Sebastian Bach. It was written in Leipzig in 1723 and was premiered on the 10th Sunday after Trinity. The aria is part of Bach's cantata 'Wer nur den lieben Gott lässt walten, BWV 93'. The aria is written for a solo alto voice accompanied by a string orchestra and continuo. It consists of two sections, each with its own distinct character. The first section is slow and mournful, with the alto voice expressing the sadness and despair of a troubled heart. The second section is faster and more joyful, with the alto voice expressing the hope and comfort that comes from trusting in God. The aria is characterized by Bach's masterful use of counterpoint and his ability to convey complex emotions through music. The opening melody is simple and plaintive, but as the aria progresses, Bach adds layers of complexity and richness to the music, creating a sense of depth and intensity. The text of the aria is based on a hymn by Georg Neumark, which speaks of the comfort and peace that comes from trusting in God. Bach's setting of the text is a testament to his deep faith and his ability to express profound spiritual truths through music. Overall, 'Was betrübst du dich, mein Herz, BWV 423' is a beautiful and moving aria that showcases Bach's mastery of composition and his ability to convey complex emotions through music. It remains a beloved piece of sacred music to this day.

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